Devine’s Hill Walk and Finch’s Line Circuit from Wiseman’s Ferry
After negotiating the Wiseman’s Ferry car crossing, 12 walkers set off on a sunny day to conquer Devines Hill. Walking the sturdy historic Great North Road we marvelled at the stone work of the convicts and reflected on life in the 1800s. Many of these aspects were described on plaques and descriptive panels scattered along the World Heritage listed monument. As we reached the summit and joined Finch’s Line, we were rewarded with scenic views of the Hawkesbury River, including its confluence with the Macdonald River, and valley views. A few remnant Gymea Lilies and early flowers added an air of Spring to our walk. Thank you to Liz Cameron for organising the walk and being an expert guide on plants.
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The Great North Road is a convict built masterpiece constructed between 1826 and 1834 to provide an overland route from Sydney to the Hunter Valley. At the time it was the largest public work yet undertaken in the colony and remains one of the major engineering feats of Australia’s convict era.
Gentle ascent on gravel road with interpretive signs about early colonial history, level walking through woodland (birds, wildflowers) then a short steep descent – walking poles advised. Total distance 7.5 km, about 4 hours. Allow at least 2 hours to drive from Oatley to Wiseman’s Ferry; car-pooling recommended. Meet in ferry carpark at 10am near coffee cart. After ferry crossing there will be a short car shuttle as parking is limited. Detailed information can be found at these links: Self-guided tour, NPWS info and Dept of Planning app (IPhone only).